Following the course of the Danube, the Route of Emperors and Kings running from the medieval city of Regensburg through Passau, Linz and Vienna and onto Bratislava and the metropolis of Budapest connects cultural centers, historical treasures and landscapes of international importance. Ten tourism organizations and shipping companies participate in the international working group “The Danube – Route of Emperors and Kings” to benefit their shared European heritage and allow contemporary travellers to discover the vestiges of historical figures such as Marcus Aurelius, Frederick Barbarossa, the Habsburgs and others.

     
Photo: © Straße der Kaiser und Könige 

Although the noblemen of yore primarily travelled by ship because the lack of well-maintained roads made overland transport so arduous, today’s travellers have a much easier time of it. For instance, those who wish to travel with all the creature comforts can do so in style on a Danube cruise ship, or they can take advantage of the many special packages for train travel. Those who prefer “decelerated” travel in the open air can hike along the Donausteig trail between Passau and Grein or cycle along the popular ‘Danube Bike Trail’, which also begins in Germany and runs all the way to Budapest.

The route of this historic road leads through ancient river landscapes and regions of unparalleled beauty, as well as through historical and modern cities, enticing visitors to take a trip back in time along this ancient river. Three cities and regions that have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites are located directly along the route: Regensburg, the Wachau and Vienna. In addition, three other World Heritage Sites are located not far from the Danube: Salzburg, Hallstatt and Český Krumlov. An application is being prepared, advocating for the Roman Danube limes to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well. (www.limes-oesterreich.at)

Castles, palaces, residences and stately monasteries dot the banks of the river. Stretching from the Danube’s source to far beyond Budapest, it is primarily the Danube Baroque architecture with its rich colours and shapes that has immortalized the rulers of the past. What remains is an eventful journey, during which even the most widely travelled adventurer finds more than enough to discover.

                                                                                        Photo: © Straße der Kaiser und Könige 

More information about Route:

Website&Blog: www.routeofemperorsandkings.com   

Facebook: www.facebook.com/strassederkaiserundkoenige  

Videos: www.youtube.com/strassederkundk  

Kahoot game: https://kahoot.it/challenge/08324098?challenge-id=497035e8-ba39-4293-9b20-1a3141f23eec_1624613153454 

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 Photo: © Straße der Kaiser und Könige      

         
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